Question

Dino, an agent, received a phone call on Sept. 29 from a consumer interested in Medicare Advantage plans for the new year. Dino proceeded to verify the consumer's Medicare eligibility, describe the costs and benefit coverage of the plan, and explained that he could not accept an enrollment application until Oct. 15. What did Dino do that was NOT compliant?

A) Dino did nothing that was non-compliant
B) Dino refused to take the enrollment application until Oct. 15
C) Dino presented a plan prior to Oct. 1

Answer 1

C) Dino presented a plan prior to Oct. 1

Dino was non-compliant because he discussed plan specifics with a consumer prior to the permissible marketing period, which starts on Oct. 1.

Step-by-step explanation:

The scenario presented indicates that Dino, who is an agent dealing with Medicare plans, spoke with a consumer on Sept. 29 about Medicare Advantage plans for the new year.

While Dino correctly informed the consumer that he could not accept an enrollment application until Oct. 15, part of the conversation was not compliant with the Medicare regulations. Specifically, Dino was non-compliant because he presented a plan prior to Oct. 1, which is before the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan annual enrollment period begins.

It's generally required that agents refrain from discussing plan specifics or marketing before this date to ensure fair marketing practices and to prevent consumer confusion.